The Carbon Glacier Corridor follows the Carbon River for a little more than 20 miles through the Town of Wilkeson to the Carbon River entrance of Mount Rainier National Park. The Carbon Glacier, located on the north side of Mount Rainier, is the source of the Carbon River. This region is treasured for its historic, cultural, and natural significance. Known for its rugged beauty, visit the Carbon Glacier Corridor to get an increasingly primitive outdoor experience.
Know Before You Go
Check the map to know whose land you’re on.
Permits required for some properties. You may need a National Park Pass, a Northwest Forest Pass or a Discover Pass.
Areas with dangerous hazards are in this region. Only recreate on land designated as publicly accessible.
Check the weather based on where you’re going.
No cell phone service beyond Carbonado. Download information before you go.
The last gas station is in Burnett.
Last restroom facilities are in the Town of Wilkeson.
Check business hours.
You cannot access the Paradise or Sunrise entrances of Mount Rainier National Park.
No vehicles over 16,000 pounds (8 tons) are allowed to cross the State Route 165 Carbon River Bridge.
Partners in the Carbon Canyon
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Foothills Rails-to-Trails Coalition
Get involved and learn more about the nearly 21 miles of paved and unpaved trail connecting sea to mountains.
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Friends of the Carbon Canyon
Keep pulse on local activities and opportunities for engagement through getting involved with the Canyon’s Friends-of group.
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Mount Rainier National Park
Understand what National Park access the Carbon River Canyon offers, and what kind of recreation you can enjoy through this park entry.
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Foothills Historical Heritage Center and Museum
Located in Buckley, learn more about the rich history of the Carbon River Corridor and surrounding towns.
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Washington Trails Association
Washington Trails Association hosts information and resources on trails, responsible recreation and tips, and how to give back to trails through volunteering.
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Backcountry Horsemen of Washington
The Carbon River Canyon hosts opportunities for equestrians and stock users to get outside and give back to trails. Learn more through the BCHW website.
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Evergreen Mountain Bike Alliance
Explore opportunities to mountain bike in the area! Get resources from the Evergreen Mountain Bike Alliance.
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Travel Tacoma
Explore resources across the County through Travel Tacoma.
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Visit Rainier
Learn about Mount Rainier National Park’s recreation opportunities throughout the Carbon Canyon and beyond, including places to stay.
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Town of Wilkeson
Wilkeson was founded in the 1870's to provide coal, sandstone and timber to the Pacific Northwest. A gateway to the Carbon Glacier and trails of Mount Rainier, the Historic Town of Wilkeson is home to 500 residents and one-of-a-kind businesses and many historical landmarks.
The future of the Corridor
In 2022, caretakers of the land published the Carbon River Corridor Cooperative Action Plan to prepare this area for the future. Through it comes opportunities for us all to get involved in the stewardship of this special place.
Stay Involved
Stay in the loop about events, work parties and feedback opportunities related to the Carbon.